At Ferndale Public Schools, Shelton served the past three years as assistant superintendent of human resources, labor relations and operations. Prior to that, he was principal of West Bloomfield High School from 2010-14.

Throughout his career, he has also served in the roles of teacher, guidance counselor, assistant principal and elementary school principal.

In their search for the right candidate to serve Farmington High School, district officials conducted two formal posting and interview processes over the past six months. The process included a 12-member interview team and a stakeholder visit, during which the final two candidates met with students, staff and parents.

Kathy Smith, the district's executive director of human resources and employee relations, called Shelton a "very special candidate."

"We have worked hard to look for and ensure we have the best possible match for Farmington High students, staff, parents and the community,” Smith said. “There have been many great candidates; however, just one rose to the top and that was Tom.”